What tool is primarily used to shape nails?

The tool primarily used to shape nails is a nail file. Nail files are designed with a rough surface that allows technicians to smooth, shape, and refine the edges of both natural and artificial nails. Shaping is a critical step in nail care, as it impacts the overall appearance and can even enhance the health of the nails by preventing breakage.

Using a nail file, technicians can achieve different shapes such as square, oval, or stiletto, depending on the client's preference. Nail files come in various grits, which refer to how coarse or fine the filing surface is; this allows for versatile use, from removing bulk and rough ends to finishing and smoothing the nail edges.

While buffers, cuticle nippers, and nail clippers serve important purposes in nail care, they do not primarily focus on shaping the nails. Buffers are used to smooth the nail surface and add shine, cuticle nippers are intended for removing excess cuticles, and nail clippers are primarily for shortening nails rather than shaping them. Thus, nail files are specifically tailored to the task of shaping nails effectively.